In a significant move affecting millions of vehicles, Tesla and eight other automakers are set to recall approximately 4.3 million cars in China. This recall is prompted by concerns that the concealed or emergency door handles in these vehicles may be hard to locate or operate in the event of accidents or electrical malfunctions. Among the automakers, Tesla stands out with the largest number, recalling about 2.98 million vehicles that include both imported and locally produced models, such as Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X. The recall process is slated to commence on September 25.
The primary issue behind this recall revolves around the difficulty in identifying emergency mechanical door-release handles following severe collisions. This concern has been raised by regulators who worry that such difficulty might hinder occupants from escaping the vehicles or prevent rescuers from gaining timely access. To address these issues, the affected vehicles will receive various remedies, ranging from enhanced warning labels and improved handle markings to over-the-air software updates.
Besides Tesla, other significant recalls include approximately 390,000 vehicles from Xiaomi, 371,000 from Leapmotor, and 264,000 from Xpeng. These recalls collectively underscore a growing vigilance in the automotive industry regarding passenger safety, particularly in emergency situations. The focus on improving the functionality and visibility of emergency exits is part of a broader effort to enhance vehicle safety standards.
This development comes as China intensifies its vehicle safety regulations. The country has announced plans to ban concealed door handles starting in 2027. This regulatory shift highlights a proactive approach to ensuring passenger safety, particularly in light of increasing concerns about the ability of vehicle occupants to quickly and safely exit a vehicle in emergencies.